Acacia gum is a sappy substance that comes from wild acacia trees.
Acacia gum, also known as gum arabic, is a substance harvested from wild acacia trees. It is harvested in the ecological region of Sahel, Africa, which stretches from Senegal on the western coast to Somalia in the east. Acacia gum is made from hardened tree sap and is an edible additive. It is used to stabilize, texturize and alter the consistency of many foods, cosmetics and medicines.
Medicine
Acacia gum is a demulcent - a substance that can coat mucous membranes. This property makes it useful in cough syrups and sore throat treatment because it helps soothe throat irritation. It is also used to make pills and keeps ingredients suspended in medical syrups. Acacia gum provides a protective cover for external wounds and inhibits bacterial growth.
Ink
Acacia gum is used extensively in ink and helps newsprint stick to newspapers. It also helps dye adhere to cloth, and is used in water colors, pottery pigments and polishing wax. The gum thickens and stabilizes ink, and is used to maintain consistency and increase adhesion.
Food
Acacia gum is also used in processed foods. In milk products, it is used in minuscule amounts, whereas the confectionery industry uses it heavily. Acacia gum stabilizes foam in beer and soft drinks and is used as an adhesive to hold food together. It is also used as a fixative to preserve flavors and clarifies wines.
Cosmetics
Acacia gum creates the proper consistency and spreading properties for a variety of gels, lotions and other cosmetic products. It also stabilizes aromas and is useful in perfumes and other scented products.
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